Do Alligators Hibernate?

ANSWER:

Technically, alligators do not hibernate, they brumate.

More info: Though many will protest that alligators do not truly hibernate, those experiencing colder climates do enter a dormant state for a period, which is the definition of hibernation. For example, alligators in northern Florida that experience cold spells will become inactive during the winter months while the rest of the state they generally remain active year round.

Most Alligators Have No Need to Hibernate

Alligators are prone to live in tropical climates, so most of the time hibernation is not so much necessary as it is for bears and other creatures that live in areas where the temperatures drop well below freezing. In tropical climates, the alligator may slow down on feeding for part of the year, but not truly hibernate. However, some alligators live in climates that host freezing temperatures during some portions of the year, or very cold temperatures, and alligators in these environments engage in a hibernation-like event called brumation.

Brumation Not Hibernation

Instead of true hibernation, alligators brumate, which is to slow their metabolism and adapt their behavior in response to the temperature. It amounts to the same type of behavior but is biologically different. However, it would not be inaccurate to say that brumation for alligators is a hibernation-like event or action. There are three main ways that alligators brumate.

Feeding Cessation

Most alligators if the temperature drops below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the alligator will slow down and stop feeding for a time. As indicated in the definitions above, this is merely a behavioral change in response to a difference in temperature, so it is the perfect example of brumation instead of hibernation.

Den Digging

One way that alligators who live in areas where the temperature drops enough to warrant hibernation is to dig dens into the sides of river banks. Essentially, the alligator will carve out a place in the mud and debris using their claws and snout. Some alligators live in ponds rather than rivers, but these alligators will still carve out dens if the temperature drops too low. After the den is built, the alligator will crawl into it and remain dormant until the weather warms up again. Most of these dens are partly or entirely submerged in water where fish are plentiful, so if the alligator needs food it will be able to feed.

Freezing

Alligators are incredibly resistant to temperatures and if it comes down to it an alligator can withstand freezing temperatures. If the weather reaches freezing the alligator can actually rest with its nostrils above the water and then wait for the body of water in which it is resting to freeze over. The alligator can stay this way for a few days, able to breathe but unable to move, until the weather becomes warmer and it can swim free.

Resources

Loyno University New Orleans
Where Do Alligators Go in the Winter?
http://loyno.edu/lucec/natural-history-writings/where-do-alligators-go-winter

Broward College
The American Alligator
http://webhome.broward.edu/~ssimpson/alligator.htm